Arkasa

Arkasa is located on the south west side of the island about 16 km (10 miles) from Pigadia, before the fishing port of Finiki. The town is devided in two by a dry stream called ‘Riaki’, which is active mainly during the winter months. It is inhabited by approximately 400 people. Arkasa lies in the area of the ancient town of Arkesea. Unfortunately, only a few remains of the ancient town can be found.

The chapel of Agia Sophia marks the site of three early Byzantine basilicas, built successively on one another starting around the fifth century. Each level of the structure has mosaic flooring. The ancient acropolis of Arkesea occupied the prominent peninsula projecting out to the sea. There are Cyclopean walls, ancient Greek walls, and foundations of public buildings, which were most likely temples. Today Arkasa has hotels and restaurants in a scenic and tranquil environment. In the outskirts of town about 500 meters (1640ft.) from the town is the beach (view below) of Agios Nicholas.